The Biola University Alumni Association handed out its annual awards at a special chapel service on Feb. 22, recognizing several alumni for their accomplishments and service.

Glen Thomas

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: Glen Thomas (’68) has spent 41 years in education, holding such positions as California Secretary of Education, executive director of the State Curriculum Commission, assistant superintendent and special education teacher.

Samuel Philip Sutherland

THE LEGACY AWARD: Samuel Philip Sutherland (’54), former chair of Biola’s psychology department and son of Biola’s fifth president, started the first psychology lab at Biola in the late ’60s. He was also instrumental in bringing the first computers to campus.

Jonalyn Fincher

CULTURAL IMPACT AWARD: Author and apologist Jonalyn Fincher (M.A. ’03) and her husband, Dale (M.A. ’02), speak at schools, churches, camps and conferences, representing their nonprofit organization Soulation.

Samantha Payne

YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD: Samantha Payne (’09) works as a manager of teacher and leadership development for Teach for America, where she helps new teachers become effective educators. Samantha also serves on the Biola Alumni Board of Directors.

Andrews Family

STEWARDSHIP AWARD: The Andrews family — Duane (’85),  Rebecca (’85) and daughter Amanda (’14) — were recognized for their commitment to service and generosity toward the Biola community. Duane is founder and CEO of Clear Capital.

Glen and Shelly Volkhardt

THE CLYDE COOK MISSIONS AWARD: Glen (’77) and Shelly (’77) Volkhardt have served as missionaries for more than three decades, including 20 years in Ecuador. Glen is CEO of Paraclete and Shelly ministers as a speaker and author.